SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 2

Correct Answer

Provision for capital punishment in cases of gang rape of a woman under 18 years.

Explanation

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC), introduced several stringent provisions to address crimes against women and children more effectively. Under Section 70(2) of the BNS, the gang rape of any woman under the age of 18 years is punishable by rigorous imprisonment for life, which means imprisonment for the remainder of that person's natural life, or with death. This specific harmonization and upgrading of the penalty to include the death penalty for the gang rape of all minors under 18 years represents a major legal escalation introduced in the new code to act as a severe deterrent against brutal sexual offenses.

The community service punishment in Indian criminal jurisprudence is reserved for minor offenses like petty theft, public misconduct under the influence of alcohol, or defamation rather than domestic violence. Marital rape remains governed by specific exceptions within the law, and the age of consent for sexual activities has not been reduced to 16 years.

Key Points

The BNS has consolidated and dedicated an entire separate chapter, Chapter V, titled Of Offences Against Woman and Child, to prioritize these matters. It introduces new crimes such as deceiving a woman to have sexual intercourse under the false promise of marriage, employment, or promotion. Additionally, it mandates stricter timelines for investigation and medical examinations to ensure a speedier judicial trial for victims.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: Which historical act did the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita officially replace when it came into effect?

Answer: The Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860.

Question: Under which specific chapter of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita are offences against women and children compiled?

Answer: Chapter V.